TERRIL, IA (Northwestiowanow) – City officials in Terril discussed ongoing concerns with the community’s water treatment plant Monday night following a drinking water advisory over the weekend.

Large amounts of manganese caused the city’s water to take on a pink tint and become unsuitable for drinking.

During Monday’s meeting, Water Consultant Brian Klein said the issue does not appear to be related to the treatment plant’s control system.

 

The city has since made adjustments to the system but is still awaiting laboratory results and state testing before the advisory can be lifted.

Klein said he believes contractor King Construction has effectively abandoned the project after failing to respond to communications regarding unfinished punch-list items.Council members discussed consulting legal and bonding experts about possible next steps.

The council also discussed whether residents should receive a credit on their water bills because of the advisory.

Council member Austin Fairchild said he understands residents’ frustration.

 

 

 

Ultimately, no action was taken, as officials said the city could not afford to do so.

 

Mayor Mark Lair said he remains hopeful the worst is behind the community.

 

Lair also thanked residents, volunteers, local businesses, emergency responders, and organizations that helped distribute bottled water during the advisory.